Puzzle map solutions

ABSTRACT

A Puzzle Map/key for aiding the solution of two-dimensional jigsaw puzzles comprises a one-page map/key document, and a back-of-the-puzzle grid. The map/key document provides a front-of-the-puzzle depiction of all the pieces of a puzzle, displayed with identifying symbols. The back-of-the-puzzle grid enables the identification of every puzzle piece to be inscribed with a unique symbol on its back side. The two components enable one to find the exact location of any puzzle piece in the puzzle being resolved, by matching the symbol on the backside of each puzzle piece to the correspondingly identified piece on the puzzle map/key. Production of the two-dimensional jigsaw puzzle and puzzle map/key on a mass scale is facilitated through the use of conventional transmission media, including computer, phone, and electronic or regular mail.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to two-dimensional jig saw puzzles in which a plurality of pieces are fit together to form a two-dimensional object; and, more particularly, to a puzzle map that provides a key to the placement of any and all pieces of a puzzle, into their exact and correct jigsaw puzzle locations for purposes of assisting with puzzle completion.

2. Description of the Prior Art

The history of the jigsaw puzzle dates back as far as 1760 when a British engraver and cartographer engraved a wooden puzzle of a world map and created a puzzle as an aid to learning geography. Jigsaw puzzles have continued to grow and flourish as a popular pastime and predate the currently popular time-consuming puzzles such as crosswords, Sudoku, cryptograms, etc., which are daily challenges for many puzzle aficionados. These and many other puzzles have the solutions either included in a solutions page or section, or promised on the following day or week making such puzzles more popular, doable, and fun.

Consumers of jigsaw puzzles have long wished for the attainment of apparatus that provides a pathway to the completion of jigsaw puzzles, especially in view of the difficulty of the challenges posed by many jigsaw puzzles in attaining their completion.

Prior art workers have disclosed a number of inventions that comprehend an improvement to, or variation of, the jigsaw puzzle. Examples of these inventions include a puzzle transport and/or storage device (Rannelli, U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,547) and Dietenberger (U.S. Pat. No. 8,235,207); a workstation and puzzle storage system (Gottesman U.S. Pat. No. 5,624,118); a puzzle board, (Carlton, U.S. Pat No. 4,026,559) and a piece organizer with trays (Leavy, U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,220).

Unique 3D Puzzle configurations are disclosed by Wilson (U.S. Pat. No. 5,104,125), Sakdinan (U.S. Pat. No. 8,628,088) and Skeetes (U.S. Pat. No. 03,795,030.) and a 3-piece non-conventional puzzle is disclosed by Uzuanis, (U.S. Pat. No. 7,508,6872).

Puzzle game systems include those designed to be educational in form (Weed, U.S. Pat. No. 0,206,423); competitive with scoring systems (Watkins. U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,138); U.S. Pat. No. 20060290055); and a puzzle memory and assembly game, (Matilla; Blagg U.S. Pat. No. 7,530,573); a puzzle game system, Bianchi U.S. Pat. No. 5,062,637; and a sports themed data based puzzle board game, (Kordana, U.S. Pat. No. 0,218,318).

Also disclosed are a weave puzzle wherein completion of the puzzle is accomplished by successful placement of printed strips (Gonter, U.S. Pat. No. 9,605,980) and a puzzle with a conductive path (Binder, U.S. Pat. No. 8,602,833).

Mucci (U.S. Pat. No. 0,167,913) discloses a product and process that presents a puzzle-solving scheme involving numbers on the back of the puzzle pieces. The numbers begin with the number #1 on the upper right corner of a puzzle piece. These numbers relate solely to the puzzle game for which they are components and for which they are solely intended. Similarly, the numbers inscribed on the Kanbar document No. U.S. Pat. No. 4,298,200A are inscribed on the puzzle backs as part of a single game toy as the primary invention. No separate map/key document containing a scheme of numbers/symbols that directly correspond to the numbers on the back of the puzzle for which they are intended to be utilized is disclosed by these prior art workers.

Long needed in the art, but not heretofore disclosed by prior art workers is a puzzle map/key that provides the ability to assist in the full completion of any puzzle, with the least disruption to the puzzle completion process by the puzzle worker. Also needed, but not heretofore disclosed, is a puzzle map/key wherein the back of the puzzle grid of numbers/symbols is presented for its use as a component of the Puzzle/map key solution. It would be highly advantageous if the Puzzle Map Solution components provided a scheme that in its use and intended application related to and could serve to benefit many, if not all jigsaw puzzles produced. However, these attributes have not heretofore been disclosed or suggested by any prior art worker. Neither has the disclosure of any prior art worker suggested an apparatus comprised of two essential components: (1) a separate map/key document; and (2) a grid of back-of-the-puzzle numbers/symbols, that are required to correspond to each other exactly in order to produce an end effect that aids in puzzle resolution for virtually any puzzle produced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a jigsaw puzzle map key that facilitates the completion of puzzles and, in doing so, overcomes the difficulty and immense energy, time and skill required for resolution of many existing puzzles. Generally stated, the Puzzle Map/key of the present invention has two key components: 1) a puzzle map/key document; and (2) a back-of-the-puzzle grid of numbers, with each number on the back of the puzzle corresponding to the number on the frontside depiction of each and every one of the puzzle pieces on the map/key.

Component (1): The map/key is a document which is compiled on one sheet of paper and can easily be presented to the consumer in the puzzle box containing the puzzle pieces at the point of purchase. The map/key serves as a key to the completion of any puzzle which it represents by displaying the scheme enabling one to determine the exact location of any puzzle piece within a puzzle. The map/key document is a grid of shapes or spaces of all the pieces of the puzzle on its front picture side.

Each piece has a unique identifying number or identifier or symbol on its front surface. Map/keys can use numbers, letters, colors, or other symbols to comprise the identifiers for the puzzle map/key, with each number or symbol being unique and not the same as any other identifying symbol or number on the Map/key. These numbers can be in any order, random or ordered and in varying positions; however, as described herein the diagrams and examples will show primarily numbers in sequential order for ease in explanation of the puzzle map/key compilation process.

Component (2): Symbols or numbers imprinted on the backsides of the puzzle pieces; and, when viewed in their entirety on the back-of-the-puzzle plane, comprise a grid of numbers, with each number within the grid placed in the center of the space representative of the puzzle piece. Together these identifiers comprise a back-of-the puzzle grid. The identifiers must meet two criteria: (1) they must be legible and (2) solely identified from any other character in the grid, i.e., unique and identifiably different from each other. Each grid cell represents the space of one puzzle piece. The back-of-the puzzle grid in total must be congruent in size to the whole plane of the puzzle which it represents.

The map/key consists of a frontside representation of all the puzzle pieces in their respective places in a completed puzzle, identifying each puzzle piece representation on the map/key by its backside number. By viewing the number on the back of each puzzle piece, one will see that it is in the exact location as the corresponding numbered piece on the map/key. Thus, one can find the exact location of any piece in the puzzle being resolved, by viewing the location of the corresponding puzzle piece on the map/key.

The Map/key component has the primary objective of assisting in providing the solution to, any jigsaw puzzle for which a map/key has been made. It is not the objective to use this map/key to replace the regular puzzle experience, nor to decrease the challenge and pleasure derived from completing a puzzle; however, the intent and optimal use of the Map/key is in its availability as a reference for puzzlers when needed or wanted in order to assist in a pleasurable experience and to maintain the challenge of completing as much of the puzzle as possible on one's own terms, with or without assistance on any level to be determined by the puzzler.

A usual method of completing a puzzle begins by having all puzzle pieces placed on their frontside for matching by picture and shape, the location of its adjacent piece. Completing the edges to determine outside borders of the puzzle and sorting pieces by color or shape are also common first steps that are not omitted by using the Map/key. This invention enables and encourages the puzzler to proceed in completing any puzzle to be resolved in the same manner as one would proceed to do in completing a puzzle without the Map/key and to put the map/key to use when needed to prevent frustration or unresolvable matches that prove too difficult to find in an acceptable time frame. It is intended to assist in, and improve the experience of puzzle completion, and NOT to replace the puzzle experience.

A major objective is to provide a method of puzzle resolution that is not disruptive to the regular puzzle completion process. Since the puzzle map/key is a depiction of the front or picture side location of all pieces of the puzzle, its use enables the puzzler to continue with the puzzle matches one piece at a time on its frontside planar working surface, and to reference the puzzle map/key when needed to deal with a particular problematic piece or pieces while viewing the frontside depiction of the puzzle pieces displayed on the Map/key. This eliminates or reduces any disruption resulting from the need to overturn any parts of a puzzle to view the number on the backside of the puzzle in order to effect a match, which would be required without a separate Map/key document.

Working to resolve a major part of the puzzle by matching the backside numbers instead of the frontside picture for sequentially numbered back-of-the-puzzle identifiers, is an exercise that can be undertaken with this map/key; however, if this method is used for a major part of the puzzle's completion for an even faster solution, the user is taken away from the puzzle experience of using skills to discern pictures, shapes, and colors and the puzzle experience becomes one of matching numbers, and not by matching pieces through the skill of the puzzler with an eye for finding the exact piece. Directions for use serve to clarify the optimal use of the puzzle map/key.

Additional objectives and advantages of the puzzle map/key solution are as follows:

(1) Objective: To have the solution or assistance available to ensure completion. Having access to assurance and a reference for puzzle completion, opens the door to more consumers being interested in doing puzzles and thus, increasing sales and marketing opportunities Jigsaw puzzles can be time-consuming, difficult to continue or complete, and/or unresolvable. Negative perceptions from experiencing these difficulties have reduced the number of consumers who wish to embark on the puzzle experience.

(2) Objective: To enable the faster completion of a puzzle. For puzzlers who have a timeframe in which to complete a puzzle, such as a week's vacation or getaway, the map/key is ideal.

(3) Objective: To know that once a piece has been connected, it is in the right place, thus confirming a proper connection enhances the enjoyability of the puzzle experience. The frustration of having to deal with unresolvable matches is a major reason for the frustration resulting in abandoning a puzzle completion or not attempting jigsaw puzzles again.

(4) Objective: To serve as a means to find lost puzzle pieces by having the knowledge of the identification of every puzzle piece. There will be fewer lost puzzle pieces because the solution time is reduced. Owners of Map/keys can report the loss of specific pieces to manufacturers who may be able to replace the missing piece as requested rather than the entire puzzle. Map/key distributors can also market the service of replacing lost parts that can be identified by referring to the Map/key for any puzzle.

(5) Objective: To Increase the fun and likelihood of completion as a family or individual project. Having a map/key serving as a reference or aide, which one or more persons can view at one time, is most valuable in any puzzle being a doable and enjoyable project for a group as well as any individual.

(6) Objective: To increase the availability of a solution for any jigsaw puzzle with easy access to consumers. Having a solution that is included at the point of purchase and readily available to the consumer offers potential to increase the popularity and therefore the sales of jigsaw puzzles. The versatility of the puzzle map/key lies in its characteristic of being a separate document easily included with any puzzle box or container purchase that can be viewed as an additional bonus to the consumer. In addition, the puzzle maps can be made available through other mediums such as computer, telephone, television or mail, with a potential for marketing and sales opportunities directed to speak to current and future puzzlers in view of the advantages disclosed.

(7) Objective: To maintain the challenge of puzzle completion and to emphasize the role of the consumer in determining the level of assistance to be provided. The puzzle map/key does not make the completion of a puzzle either easy or obvious in the process of working to completion of a whole, finished puzzle. Even with the puzzle map/key available, the completion of the puzzle itself is a major challenge and it is up to the consumer to refer to the puzzle map/key as often as needed or not at all. Further, all assistance from the map/key is offered one piece at a time in the known and usual process of puzzle completion, i.e., finding an exact match to an adjacent puzzle piece for each and every puzzle piece until a whole puzzle picture is attained. The challenge of the puzzle completion still remains intact with the puzzler in complete control of the level of assistance. One can use the map/key for every piece, for difficult placement, or not at all.

(8) Objective: To improve access to the consumer who is seeking puzzle piece search assistance by making the puzzle/map key solution available through available modes of communication including computer, mail, or by telephone. The provision of information to enable a consumer to find the location of a difficult piece or pieces that are a barrier to their ability to finish the puzzle is now available, and any producer of puzzle map/keys will have the answer to the location of pieces for any of their puzzles for any numbered piece. Thus, such assistance provides an additional service to the consumer who may not have a map/key in hand, in obtaining puzzle piece search assistance for locating or replacing lost pieces or to resolve the location of any piece for which assistance is needed.

The aforementioned advantages and objectives of the use of the puzzle map/key are a result of the overall objectives of this invention i.e., to provide an apparatus that (i) assists the consumer in the completion of any jigsaw puzzle; (ii) is easily accessible to the consumer; (iii) increases consumer interest in puzzles to be purchased for themselves or others; (iv) increases marketability and sales; and (v) improves the jigsaw puzzle experience by enhancing its aspects of having the puzzle to be solved by the consumer, by being doable, achievable, enjoyable, and satisfying to the puzzle consumer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be more fully understood and further advantages will become apparent when reference is had to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which three separate puzzles are represented: Puzzle #1 shown as FIGS. 1A-11 , Puzzle #2 shown as FIG. 2A-2F, and Puzzle #3 shown as FIG. 3A-3D, and in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates the picture-side plane of a puzzle appointed for use with the present invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates the backside plane of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, numbered by hand;

FIG. 1C illustrates a puzzle map/key for use with the puzzle of FIG. 1A, numbered by hand;

FIG. 1D illustrates the back of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, showing shapes solely;

FIG. 1E illustrates the back of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, with a computer-numbered grid;

FIG. 1F illustrates the back of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, with computer grid numbers on shapes;

FIG. 1G illustrates the front of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, for use with the map/key;

FIG. 1H illustrates a computer grid of the puzzle of FIG. 1A, with matching FIG. 1G shapes;

FIG. 1I illustrates a puzzle map/key with computer numbers on a die pattern;

FIG. 2A illustrates the back of a puzzle with computer numbers on a die pattern;

FIG. 2B illustrates the map/key of the puzzle of FIG. 2A, with the back of the puzzle numbers on the front of the puzzle map/key pieces;

FIG. 2C illustrates the back of the FIG. 2 puzzle grid with partial random numbers;

FIG. 2D illustrates the FIG. 2 puzzle map/key computer grid with partial random numbers;

FIG. 2E illustrates the back of the FIG. 2 puzzle computer grid with full random numbers;

FIG. 2F illustrates the map/key_of the FIG. 2 puzzle computer grid with full random numbers;

FIG. 3A illustrates the back of a 200-piece puzzle numbers grid with no grid lines used in sealing the back grid document to the bottom of the puzzle;

FIG. 3B illustrates the top left section of FIG. 3A, showing thirty of the 200 grid cell representations beginning with cell number one, with each of the pictured cells representing the actual grid size of the pieces included in a puzzle depicted by FIG. 3C and FIG. 3D;

FIG. 3C illustrates a condensed view of the puzzle map/key of the puzzle depicted by FIG. 3A, with computer numbers grid for front of the puzzle plane pieces represented in block form; and

FIG. 3D illustrates a puzzle map/key (condensed view) with numbered pieces in the same location and shapes as the pieces depicted on the front plane of the puzzle shown in FIG. 3A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a puzzle map key for solving a two-dimensional jigsaw puzzle having a front plane with a plurality of puzzle pieces. The puzzle map key comprises: a map/key comprising a one-page document displaying substantially the entire front plane and all pieces of a puzzle to be solved. Each of the puzzle pieces are shown on the map/key and are identified by a number or symbol that is derived from and is the same as a corresponding number or symbol inscribed on the back of each of the puzzle pieces. In addition, the puzzle map key comprises a back-of-the-puzzle grid, comprising a plurality of spaces bearing numbers or symbols that identify the location for each piece of the puzzle to be solved. Each of the numbers or symbols is (i) imprinted on the backs of pieces of the jigsaw puzzle, (ii) different from any other of said numbers or symbols, and (iii) not repeated on the back-of-the puzzle grid. With this arrangement, each piece of the puzzle shown on the front plane is uniquely identifiable by the numbers or symbols on the backs of the jigsaw puzzle pieces and the spaces bearing numbers or symbols which collectively comprise the back-of-the-puzzle grid.

Referring to the drawings, there is shown in FIG. 1A a frontside view of a hand-numbered, 2-dimensional puzzle 4 comprised of 100 puzzle pieces with each piece 3 having a front or top side 1 and back or bottom side 2. The total number of front side pieces joined together comprise the front-of-the-puzzle plane 4, referred to as the front-side plane or planar surface; the working side plane or planar surface; or the picture-side plane or planar surface. The backsides of the puzzle pieces 2 when joined together to complete the backside of the puzzle 9, comprise the bottom-side plane or planar surface or the backside plane or planar surface; or the back-of-the-puzzle plane or planar surface.

FIG. 1B depicts is the backside plane 9 of the puzzle 4 comprising a grid of back-of-the-puzzle numbered pieces. Each piece 8 has a front-side or picture-side of the puzzle on its rear 7 and a back-side of the puzzle 6 , being the face-side in this depiction of the back-side of the puzzle. With all 100 individual pieces 8 joined together, the backside plane of the puzzle 9 is depicted. The puzzle pieces are identified with numbers from 1-100, each piece identified by its own unique number 10. The puzzle is shown in its most basic form, being numbered by hand.

FIG. 1C depicts a Puzzle map/key 14, which is a separate and accompanying document for the puzzle (4). The puzzle map/key is comprised of the total number of joined pieces 12, which are in the same position and forming the same piece configuration, as the front-side puzzle plane 4, with numbers identifying each puzzle piece 13. For example, on the map/key 14 the number 4 piece 13 has the same shape as the same number 4 piece 5 on the back of the puzzle plane 9; however, its location and direction of the shape is different. Notice that the same number 4 piece 13 on the puzzle map/key 14 has exactly the same shape and location as the number 4 piece 3 pictured on the actual puzzle front plane 4. The placement of the numbered pieces on the Puzzle Map/key 14 is different than the placement of those same numbered pieces on the back of the puzzle; they are placed in an opposing order from the numbers on the backside plane 9.

Viewing the numbers on the back of the puzzle 9, one can notice that the top row is numbered 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, from left to right. The numbers on the Puzzle Map/key 14 from left to right on the top row are in the opposite sequence being 9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1 and this sequence for both puzzles is repeated for all the rows. The placement of the numbers on the Puzzle Map/key 14 differs from that of the back-of-the-puzzle plane 9. Likewise, the shape structure for the corresponding numbers also differs in its location on the Map/key compared to its location on the back of the Puzzle because each piece with the same corresponding number, represents a puzzle piece with the same shape but in a different location and facing in an opposite direction, e.g., the number 18 piece 15 is located on the top far left second row of the puzzle map/key 14 and its corresponding number 18 piece 10 is located on the top far right of the back-of-the puzzle plane 9.

Because of this difference in placement of the piece 12 on the Puzzle Map/key 14 as compared to the back-of-the-Puzzle pieces 8, it cannot be said that the Puzzle Map/key numbers grid 14 is the same as the back-of-the-puzzle numbers grid 9. Although the numbers in both grids are the same numbers in value, the pieces compiling the two grids differ from each other in location, direction, medium, and utility of function. The difference is significant, in that this difference in sequence between the Map plane 14 and the back of the puzzle plane 9, enables the Puzzle Map 14 to represent an exact likeness in piece shape and location, as the front of the puzzle picture plane 4. This can be shown by viewing the piece number 18 piece in its location in the Puzzle 4 (15), in the same exact shape and location as on the Puzzle Map/key 14 i.e., at the top far left, second row 15. This exact likeness in location and shape representation makes the Puzzle Map/key an ideal embodiment for providing a frontside key and reference that assists in locating every piece 3 or pieces in the puzzle 4 as are needed to complete the puzzle.

In FIG. 1D there is shown a depiction of the back-of-the-puzzle plane, with shapes and no numbers 17 for puzzle number 1 (4). This is the back-of-the-puzzle planar surface 17 that is created when one completes a puzzle by connecting each puzzle piece 19 to its adjacent match 16 on the front or picture side 18 of the puzzle. The puzzle pieces with no numbers 16 together with all pieces 19 completely assembled, constitute a depiction of the back of the puzzle shapes prior to numbers being embedded on each of the pieces 17. This illustrates one stage of the production of puzzle map/keys, as the numbers being placed on the back of the puzzle pieces must occur for identification of each puzzle piece.

FIG. 1E shows a grid of numbers 20 representing the puzzle pieces on the backside plane 17 and produced by the computer by measuring the sizes of the puzzle pieces 19 and using those measurements to produce a grid of numbers in block form 20 conforming to the back-of-the-puzzle shape grid sizes 17. Most jigsaw puzzles are comprised of shapes that are in rows 21 and columns 22 of the same size in height and width, which can be represented in a block pattern 20 consisting of cells 25 whose sizes are measured or calculated. (as shown in FIG. 3B). Numbers to be inscribed on the back of the puzzle pieces can be entered on the computer by filling in those same cells 25 with numbers 23 in the center of the cell area. Minor differences in placement can be adjusted by lowering the numbers 24 a or raising them 24 b to ensure all numbers can be fit on the back-of-the-puzzle shapes plane 17. This grid of back-of-the-puzzle numbers 20 is the pattern (without grid lines) that is sealed over the back of the puzzle when the puzzle is one piece, with a picture on the front side of the puzzle and the back-of-the-puzzle grid 20 on the bottom side of the puzzle before being pressed into pieces.

FIG. 1F illustrates the completed back-of-the-puzzle grid 26. Numbers 23 comprising the numbers grid 20 have been placed onto the back-of-the-puzzle shapes of grid plane 17. The front side of these grid numbers 29 represents the back-of-the-puzzle numbered pieces. On the reverse side of these grid pieces 27 are the front of the puzzle or picture side of those pieces 28. In the process of producing puzzles, the numbers grid 26 is a representation of the back of the puzzle's appearance after it is cut into the exact shapes pictured in this grid, and before the pieces are begun to be separated for inclusion into packaging for consumption. Each cut piece will have the inscribed number on its backside and a part of the picture of the puzzle on its front side.

FIG. 1G illustrates the front of the puzzle shapes grid without the numbers 30, which will be the base for the puzzle map/key to be produced with computer-generated numbers representing the frontside exact location of the puzzle pieces as depicted on the Puzzle Map/key 14. The shapes on this shapes grid 30 are an exact match to the shape and location of each of shapes 3 contained on the front of puzzle 4 which is being resolved.

FIG. 1H illustrates the front of the puzzle grid of numbered cells 31 consisting of numbers 32 in cells 33 matching the area of the size of the puzzle pieces, that will be copied onto the shapes grid of the front of the puzzle 30 and which will comprise the document that is the Puzzle Map/key 34. In this example, the sizes of cells 33 of the grid 31 for the front of the puzzle depiction or puzzle map/key are identical to the sizes of cells within the grid of numbers for the back of the puzzle 20; however, the numbers 32 in the grid of cells 31, are different in location from the numbers 25 on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 20. The numbers in the front-of-the-puzzle cell grid 31 are in descending order starting from the left top corner 9.8.7.6.5.4.3.2.1. as opposed to the back of the puzzle cells grid numbers 20 which have the numbers from the left top corner as being 1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.

FIG. 11 illustrates the Puzzle Map/key 34, which is the result of having the grid of front-of-the-puzzle numbers 31 placed upon the front of the puzzle shapes grid 30 for a depiction of shapes and numbers on a document, the Puzzle Map/key, that presents the solution for the resolution of the puzzle number 1 (4). In viewing the Puzzle Map/key document 34 it is pointed out that the number 4 puzzle piece 36 of the Map/key 34, is the same shape but in a different location as its corresponding number 4 piece 28 on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 26; and that same piece number 4 on the Puzzle/key 36 corresponds exactly to its shape and location 3 on the front plane of the puzzle number 1 (4) being resolved. For example, to place the puzzle piece which has the number 6 on its backside, one could easily find its puzzle piece location on the Map/key 34 by locating the number 6 (35), the location being fourth from the top left corner, and then proceeding to place this puzzle piece number 6 (35) in its corresponding location on the front of the puzzle 4 for which the Map is devised, being fourth from the top left corner 2.

The puzzle solution mechanism, as hereinabove described, holds true for every other puzzle piece needing to be placed in its proper location, which can be determined by looking at the number on the back of the piece needing to be placed and then finding its match on the Puzzle Map/key, which will determine the exact location of its placement on the puzzle to be resolved. This is the mechanism that enables the consumer to determine the location of any puzzle piece in hand to be placed into a puzzle in its exact correct location with the assistance of the puzzle map/key.

In FIG. 2A there is illustrated a depiction of a back-of-the-puzzle numbered grid 38 representing the shapes of the 100 pieces 41 comprising Puzzle #2, sourced from the backside of a die stencil 39 used to cut the puzzle into its 100 pieces. Once the stencil grid pattern is copied and drawn, an identifying number 40 is inscribed in the center of each puzzle piece 41. This number represents the number to be inscribed on the back surface of each puzzle piece 41, and in this case, all piece numbers are organized in a serial pattern so that every puzzle piece has a different number in a recognized order. The numbered pieces 41, when combined to represent the total puzzle, form a grid of back-of-the-puzzle numbers 38. The backside of each puzzle piece 42 on this grid 38 is a depiction of the front side or picture plane of puzzle number 2. A copy of the grid of numbers fitted to the exact size of the puzzle is placed onto a document which is then sealed over the uncut puzzle on the bottom side of the puzzle plane. The topside plane of that uncut puzzle will be sealed with the picture of the puzzle, in preparation for the cutting of the puzzle into 100 pieces. When cut into pieces, each piece will have a portion of the puzzle picture on its topside and an identifying number on its backside. The diagram of the back-of-the-puzzle numbered pieces 38, represents the view of the puzzle on its bottom side, in the short time after it is pressed into pieces by the die press and before it is separated into puzzle pieces and packaged for inclusion in the puzzle box.

FIG. 2B illustrates a depiction of a Puzzle Map/key 46 drawn from a die pattern of the die 38 on its frontside, used for cutting puzzle pieces with a slightly different grid pattern from Puzzle number 1 (4). Each puzzle piece 47 represents a frontside portion of the puzzle and when connected together comprises a front-of-the-puzzle depiction of the puzzle pieces, on a document that serves as a Puzzle Map/key. The map/key 46 is a separate document, which in this example is an image of all of the pieces of the complete puzzle on its front picture side, an exact likeness of the shapes and location of pieces on the front of the puzzle. Each piece on the map/key 46 is identified by the number 45 inscribed on the back of the puzzle piece, which on the puzzle map/key, will show its exact location on the puzzle to be resolved. For example, if one is looking for the match to a piece with the number 4 on its back, then one need only look for the number 4 (45) on the puzzle map/key and immediately see the same and correct location of that piece on the puzzle since the puzzle and the puzzle map/key both display a front-of-the puzzle view of each puzzle piece.

In FIG. 2C there is shown the back-of-the-puzzle grid 48 displaying a partially random numbered block representation of the puzzle shapes pattern 38 for Puzzle #2. Each block 50 a is the back side of the puzzle piece with an identifying number inscribed in the center 49; the reverse side of each puzzle piece is the picture side or front of the number 74 piece plane 50 b, and all 100 blocks are joined to represent a grid 48 that corresponds to the sizes of the pieces included in the back-of-the-puzzle grid 38. The numbers are ordered in a partially random sequence because the numbers in the first row 51 starting with the number 71 and ending with the number 80 (51) are ordered from left to right in an ascending serial arrangement; and the numbers in the column 52 starting with the number 71 at the top to the bottom, ending with number 61 (52) are randomly presented, with the starting numbers of each row randomly ordered. This arrangement provides some ease to the puzzler in finding the matching number for any puzzle by recognizing the row sequence; however, because the starting column is numbered randomly, it is more difficult to predict the exact location of a puzzle piece without referencing the puzzle map/key. These variations enable the puzzle map/keys to have a variety of schemes that can be applied to challenge the consumer, more or less. While the blocks clarify the actual block measurements that determine the computer sizes into which the numbers 49 will be centered, the actual pattern of the grid 48 as it is sealed onto the back of the puzzle before cutting, is applied without the grid lines onto the corresponding backplane of the puzzle.

FIG. 2D depicts the Puzzle Map/key grid 53 that is in block form, corresponding to the partial random back-of-the-puzzle scheme 48. Each puzzle piece 54 representation connected to its matching pieces on the front side 55, comprises the frontside or picture side plane 53 of the 100-piece Puzzle number 2 and is shown as it would appear on a separate puzzle map/key document. Each number 56 on the Map/key (53) depicts the number on the backside of the puzzle piece which will fit into its exact same location on the puzzle to be solved. For example, when viewed on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 48, number 79 (57) is located on the top row on the right side of the puzzle just left of the right corner piece number 80 (59).

When viewed on the Puzzle Map/key grid 53, piece number 79 (56) is located on the top row on the left side of the puzzle map/key, just right of the top left corner piece number 80 (58). The dichotomy of the positioning of the piece on the two grids is easily understood, when considering that a front-side view of the puzzle pieces can be accomplished by arranging the back-of-the-puzzle numbers in an opposing or mirror image order and placing that mirror image order of numbers on the front of the puzzle map/key. The result is that when solving the puzzle for the puzzle piece in hand, numbered 79 (56) on its backside, the piece will be found exactly in the top left side of the puzzle, just right of the top corner piece number 80 (58), in exactly the same location as pictured on the Puzzle Map/key 53. In the puzzle map grid with shapes 46, its exact location 56 would be where the number 9 is located in another numbers scheme. Therefore, the Puzzle Map is truly a key to finding the exact location of any piece in hand by matching the number on the back of the puzzle piece to the number on the Puzzle Map, thereby showing the puzzler the exact position of the piece on the puzzle to be completed.

FIG. 2E depicts the back-of-the-puzzle block grid 59 inscribed with fully random numbers on the back of each puzzle piece 65 with the opposite side of each piece as in number 56 (66) comprising a part of the front plane of the puzzle. The numbers have no sequential order and their positioning within each block can differ e.g., right side up 60, facing down 61, tilted right 62, facing up 63, tilting left 64, upside down, etc. The numbers are in random order and in no predictable position so that the back-of-the-puzzle numbers provide no hints or assistance in placement of the puzzle pieces; some may choose to have assistance from a map/key only when it is referenced to resolve difficult connections. The numbers or symbols on the back are a source of puzzle search assistance. Looking at the back of the puzzle numbers, with numbers placed right side up on all pieces, one can detect the top and bottom direction of the puzzle piece, as well as their location in noticing their number in an ordered serial scheme. A fully random number scheme for the back of the puzzle will provide the least assistance in the puzzle completion process; it will provide no position or serial sequence assistance unless one refers to the map/key. Looking at the number placement on the back of the puzzle piece is an optional consideration for search assistance because the usual puzzle completion procedure starts with placing all pieces on their picture side and making the connection of each piece from there. Even without the assistance of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers, the map/key with random numbers and/or random positions will still provide the exact location of any puzzle piece if referenced to the map/key, which can verify the correct placement of any piece if needed. Understanding the random or ordered nature of the numbers that can be inscribed on the back of the puzzle is a means to control the amount of assistance to be provided in the puzzle completion process and the puzzle map/key can have varied number orders and positions accordingly.

In FIG. 2F and corresponding to the grid 59 in FIG. 2E is the front-of-the-puzzle depiction of the fully random grid of numbers that comprises the scheme of the Puzzle Map/key document 67. As illustrated, the numbers are in upright positions and centered 68, as they are in all the piece representations 69. The purpose of the puzzle map/key, for all map/keys, is to enable one to find for any puzzle piece in hand, its exact location on the puzzle to be solved, by means of the Puzzle Map/key; therefore, the depiction of the puzzle numbers 68 as they appear in the puzzle piece or block 69, needs no shape or positioning schemes, to achieve that purpose. The object of the random positioning on the backsides of the puzzle pieces is to give the least assistance through the arrangement of numbers on the pieces in hand which are evident and otherwise provided by the ordered positioning and serial arrangements on the puzzle piece backs. The map/key with all its numbers in the upright position is sufficient to provide one with assistance in finding the location of each puzzle piece.

FIG. 3A depicts the back-of-the-puzzle numbers grid 73 for the 200-piece Puzzle #3 measuring 18″ in width and 12″ in height. This grid 73 can be manufactured to be applied to puzzles in various manners; however, in this presentment it is conceived of as a document. In document form, the use of the grid is shown to be amenable to the production of puzzles in the same manner as pictures are applied to every puzzle in the production process. Each number on this grid 74 is placed in the center of the space of the corresponding puzzle piece which it represents. Depiction of the grid 73 is with no grid lines and represents its appearance as it is sealed onto the bottom planar puzzle surface prior to the puzzle being cut into 200 pieces. The picture of the puzzle will be sealed on the top planar surface of the cardboard or other material comprising the puzzle. The back of the puzzle grid document will be sealed on the bottom-side of that same material on which the picture is applied.

FIG. 3B illustrates a portion of an actual size grid block 75 of the 12″ by 18″ 200-piece puzzle of FIG. 3A, comprised of thirty of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers 76 in blocks 77 representing puzzle pieces at the top left corner of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers grid 73 beginning with the piece number 1. The pictured numbered blocks 77 are the actual size of the puzzle pieces. The measurement of the puzzle pieces is shown as being 0.90″ ( 9/10″) in width and 1.2″ in height.

Multiplying each measurement by the number of pieces 0.90″×(20 pieces across)=18″ and 1.2″×(10 pieces down)=12″. All 200 blocks in this grid would display the actual size of the 18″×12″ puzzle. One can divide the length across the puzzle (18″) by the number of puzzle pieces (20) and obtain the same result, 0.90″; then divide the height of the puzzle (12″) by the number of puzzle pieces contained in the vertical height (10) to obtain again the same result, 1.2″. This is another method of obtaining and/or verifying actual puzzle piece sizes that form the basis of the back-of-the-puzzle measurements to produce the back-of-the-puzzle grids.

The methods explained to determine cell size are necessary in providing a grid of back-of-the-puzzle numbers representing all the cells. The shape of every cell is different with the shapes protruding outward or inward on all sides of the puzzle piece; therefore, measuring one puzzle piece will not necessarily coincide with the measurements of the other cells, some seeming larger, smaller, shorter or taller. Thus, the measurement of any cell should be based on a group of cells calculating their size from the average of the group. This is taken into consideration in measuring cell sizes in the two examples given, i.e., (1) being patterned from the actual die pattern or (2) calculating the sizes by the number of pieces.

In FIG. 3C there is shown a compressed view of the front-of-the-puzzle grid of the piece representations 80 when joined together, forming a Puzzle Map/key 78 for the 200-piece Puzzle #3. The number 15 block 79 on the puzzle map/key 78 is located on the top row, 6^(th) from the upper left corner of the Map/key 78 and also indicates the exact location of the piece in its exact location on the puzzle being completed 81. One can see the opposite location of this number 15 piece 79 on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 73, being sixth from the left on the upper right corner of the top row. This dichotomy is due to the fact that the back of puzzle 73 on its flip side 72, is the front of the puzzle, and the location of the number 15 piece (79) on the Puzzle Map/key 78 is shown as it appears on the flipped side, or frontside of the puzzle plane 72. On the Map/key 78, block number 17 (80) is positioned in the top row fourth from the left corner on the Puzzle Map/key 78, which is a front-side view of the puzzle. Again, the number 17 location 80 on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 73 is in an opposite location in the same row being 4^(th) from the top right corner of the back-of-the-puzzle grid 73. This block presentation 78 is a scheme sufficient to target the exact locations of the pieces of the puzzle being completed and to serve as a puzzle map/key. The puzzle map/key presented is a document in itself and does not have to be of the exact size of the puzzle and only large enough to easily distinguish the identifying symbols and/or shapes on its front. While this is simpler to produce than a map/key with shapes, it provides sufficient, but not maximum search assistance in the corresponding shape structures because it is in block form.

FIG. 3D illustrates a compressed view of the computer-numbered Puzzle map/key 81 composed of all piece representations 80 of the 200-piece Puzzle number #3 in the same location and shapes as the pieces on the frontside plane of the puzzle. Each puzzle piece representation 82 has a number 83 identifying its unique location in the puzzle, and also in the Map/key on which it is located. Every puzzle piece 80 on the Puzzle Map/key 81 is uniquely identified by a number 83, which corresponds exactly to the number inscribed on the back of the puzzle piece. There is no backside since this puzzle map/key is on a single sheet of paper; its use provides the key to the exact location of the puzzle and the connecting pieces e.g., piece number 8 (83) being the number 9 piece 82 on its left side, or the number 28 piece 86 on its bottom side, or the number 7 piece 85 on its right side. The same dichotomy of the puzzle map/key grid 81 in relation to the arrangement of numbers on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 73 is viewed in noticing the location of the number 1 piece 84 on the Puzzle Map key 81 located on the far right corner on the map/key and in its location on the back-of-the-puzzle grid 73, where the number 1 piece 84 is in the far left corner of the grid 73. This dichotomy enables the placement of the numbers on the back of the puzzle piece, as placed on the map/key, to match its exact location on the front of the puzzle being resolved. This is true for all the pieces of the puzzle as can be observed in the opposing locations of puzzle pieces number 17 (80) and number 15 (79) which are located on the left top section of the map/key 81 as opposed to their locations on the back of the puzzle grid 73 where they are on the right-side of the top row. This Puzzle Map/key 81 is presented with a serial number arrangement within the corresponding shapes of the puzzle; therefore, it provides search assistance in the numbers/symbols match on the back of the puzzle, the front-side up location of the puzzle piece in hand, the serial location of the numbered pieces, and the matching shapes of the puzzle at hand as well as of its connecting pieces.

The puzzle Map solution presents an apparatus for solving jigsaw puzzles, which provides a key to the placement of any and all pieces of a puzzle, into their exact and correct locations for the jigsaw puzzle for which it is intended, for the purpose of providing assistance to the consumer of puzzles, in the process of puzzle completion. The apparatus is comprised of two components: (1) the Map/key document and (2) the back-of-the-puzzle grid of identifying symbols. In addition, this invention is applicable to most, if not all, conventional two-dimensional jigsaw puzzles which are available for distribution to the any member of the public who wishes to complete a puzzle.

The Map/key is a one-sheet document separate from the puzzle being resolved, which contains numbers that show the exact location of each puzzle piece on the puzzle. The map/key is a presentation of the shape spaces of all the pieces of the puzzle on its front or picture-side plane. The backside number of every puzzle piece is also inscribed on each puzzle piece on the map/key compiling a grid of identifying numbers. This map/key provides the puzzler with the information she/he requires in order to locate any one piece as to its exact location within the puzzle, by matching the number on the backside of the puzzle, to the location of that piece on the map/key which has the same identifying number, and which corresponds to its exact location on the puzzle to be solved.

The production process for puzzles begins with the source of material that comprises the puzzle, being cardboard, wood, plastic, or any material used which will be the material used to serve as the puzzle, which will be cut into puzzle pieces. The pieces are gathered and placed into a puzzle box. The insertion of a Map/key document in the puzzle box at the point of purchase is the ideal means of transmission for use by the consumer interested in completing a puzzle.

The following two components of the Puzzle Map/key apparatus are relevant to an understanding of the puzzle map/key apparatus: (i) The back-of-the-puzzle grid: Each puzzle piece is inscribed with an identifying number on its backside and when the pieces are viewed in entirety on the back-of-the-puzzle plane collectively comprise a grid of numbers that are the back-of-the-puzzle grid. The identifiers making up this back-of-the-puzzle grid can be numbers or any symbols, for example, emojis, letters, colors, or any other characters that are unique from each other. The numbers inscribed can be in any order, for example, sequential, random, sideways, right-side up or downside up, or tilted. These characters must meet two criteria: 1) they must be legible and (2) solely identified from any other character in the grid, i.e., unique and identifiably different from each other. The characters in the grid are arranged to be centered in the space of each puzzle piece, with each grid cell representing the space of one of the puzzle pieces that comprise the whole puzzle. The back-of-the-puzzle grid forms the pattern on a document that would be sealed onto the back of the puzzle at the point of production when the picture for the puzzle front plane is sealed, i.e, before cutting and pressing the puzzle into pieces of the jigsaw puzzle. This step will result in having puzzle pieces produced with each piece having a picture on one side and an identifying symbol on the opposite side of the same puzzle piece. This process enables the backside symbol on each puzzle piece to be displayed on the front of that same puzzle piece as it appears on the map/key document which is comprised of a frontside view of all the puzzle pieces. (ii) The Puzzle Map/key: Since the puzzle numbers on the back-of-the-puzzle are identified on the puzzle map/key, they must be included on the map/key. The map/key is a document comprised of a sheet of paper that is separate from the puzzle for which it is created. It is a front-side, or picture-side depiction of all the puzzle pieces that comprise the puzzle, with each containing on the front side, the same identifier as on the backside of that puzzle piece. That back-of-the-puzzle identifier, now on the front side of the Map/key piece is sourced from the back-of-the-puzzle grid referred to in the prior paragraph. Both major components- the map/key and the back-of-the-puzzle grid are directly related and display the identical numbers for each puzzle piece.

The grid for the puzzle map/key is composed of the numbers on the back of the puzzle; however, in order to have a frontside depiction of those numbers imprinted on the map/key for the pieces that correspond to the frontside picture of the puzzle at hand, the numbers in the map/key grid must be ordered in the opposite direction of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers grid numbers. For example, if the numbers on the back-of-the-puzzle grid are in ascending order from left to right beginning with the top left first number being 1, e.g., 1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10. then the numbers comprising the puzzle map/key grid starting from the top left of the grid would be 10.9.8.7.6.5.4.3.2.1.

This puzzle map/key then is a representation of an opposing or mirror image of the back-of-the-puzzle grid of numbers which differs in the presentation of shapes, utility, and numbers in its comparison to the back of the puzzle scheme as presented by Mucci or Kanbar. For this invention, the mirror image of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers compiles the grid for the puzzle map/key, which represents a picture-side, working side and front-of-the-puzzle numbered grid document. Unlike the aforementioned inventions, both components—the back-of-the-puzzle grid and the Map/key—relate to the compilation of a puzzle map/key solution and are interrelated and necessary for this apparatus.

The puzzle map/keys shown in the drawings have been created as follows:

By hand: The first step is to have in hand a complete puzzle with all pieces in place as in FIG. 1A, which is the “ front of the puzzle”. The picture side is the front of the puzzle, as stated throughout this application. Placing the numbers on the back of each piece must be completed first, so the puzzle must be placed on its backside for numbering, and numbers entered on each piece as in FIG. 1B.

To create the puzzle map/key, which is a picture of the front of the puzzle, not the back, the numbers on the puzzle map/key must identify the location of each piece. The identification of each piece is contained in the number on the back of each puzzle piece; therefore, that identifying number on the back of each puzzle piece is displayed on the front of the puzzle piece for all pieces contained in the puzzle map/key. To enable a frontside view of the puzzle on the puzzle map/key, with the corresponding back-of-the-puzzle numbers shown correctly to reflect their exact positions on the frontside map/key plane, the numbers to be entered on the puzzle map/key depicting the numbers on the backside of the puzzle pieces shown in FIG. 1B must be ordered in reverse direction or in a mirror image arrangement for placement on the Puzzle Map/key shapes shown on FIG. 1C.

By computer: Computerized numbering of puzzle pieces is more legible, easier and faster, so there is a progression in the drawings (for puzzles number 1-3) that are illustrated with computerized grids of numbers both for the back-of-the-puzzle and puzzle map/keys.

a. The computerized numbers for the back of the puzzle plane must comprise a grid which fits the exact size and location of the pieces on the back of the puzzle. This is necessary because the computerized grid, in document form, must be applied to the back of the puzzle and sealed so that all puzzle pieces that are produced when puzzles are cut and pressed, have the number on the back of each puzzle piece. FIGS. 1E, 1F, 2A, 2C, 2E, and 3A show back-of-the-puzzle number grids generated by the computer.

b. The puzzle map/keys or front-of-the-puzzle grids that are numbered by computer are shown in FIGS. 1H,1 (i), 2B, 2D, 2F, 3C, and 3D. The map/keys are a depiction of the front of the puzzle picture, and can be followed to assist the puzzler in placing puzzle pieces in the correct location by looking at the back of the puzzle piece to find the corresponding matching number on the map/key. Each number on the back of the puzzle piece can be paired to its same number on the puzzle map/key which is a depiction of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers in their proper and exact location on both the puzzle map/key and on the front of the puzzle. The puzzle map/key is a separate document that can now be used as needed and wanted, to assist any puzzler in the process of placing difficult pieces, thus serving as a major or minor factor in the completion of a puzzle, depending on how often the map is referenced by the puzzler.

c. Having consecutive or randomly placed numbers on the backsides of the puzzle pieces is the next consideration. There are several levels of puzzle map/key assistance that differ according to the placement and order of the numbers on the grid for the back of the puzzle, which determines the grid for the Puzzle Map. There are levels of assistance that can be provided by the maps, changing the construction of the order and placement of the numbers depending on the following variations:

(1.) Variable 1: Numbers are ordered consecutively as in Puzzles #1, #2, and #3 (FIGS. 1(I), 2B, 3C, and 3D) This simplifies searching for puzzle pieces on the map. The piece placement would be able to be determined by deciphering the order of the numbers on the map and determining the location of the piece.

Ordered numbers may be easier to manufacture as the pieces would be predictably in order and easier to number in placing the numbers on the back-side in reverse order of the puzzle map/keys, for production of the maps and puzzle grids. The general region in which the puzzle piece can be located on the puzzle would be easier to find, e.g., smaller numbers on the top and larger numbers on the bottom.

(2.) Variable 2: Numbering the backside pieces randomly would serve the purpose of not providing the solution so simply, but still containing the correct answer as to whether any piece to be matched is in its correct placement. Levels of random numbering are shown in the back-of-the-puzzle grids in FIGS. 2C and 2E and the puzzle map/keys in FIGS. 2D and 2F. Partially random: FIGS. 2C and 2D contain random numbers but each row has consecutive numbers. The advantage to this partial random configuration is that it is random, but will provide some assistance in locating the correct piece on the puzzle map through a partial serial sequence and upright positioning of the number. Fully random: FIGS. 2E and 2F illustrate a puzzle map/key which contains fully random numbers and provides no assistance in puzzle position, numbering order, or shapes. Master puzzlers may prefer this option because the numbers on the back will provide no assistance in puzzle placement if the map is not utilized. The solution will be provided, but need not be used, so the puzzler is assured of his /her integrity in completing the puzzle with no assistance appearing to help resolve the puzzle at all.

(3.) Variable 3: Placing all the numbers in a straight vertical position is a beneficial factor. The numbers on the back of the puzzle can then be used to determine the proper direction of the piece, i.e., one would know which part of the piece is the topside and which is the bottom, therefore knowing the left side and the right side of the piece in the scheme of the puzzle. It is a major assistance to know in which direction (upside or downside) each puzzle piece should lie. Random placement of the numbers (i.e., left-side on top, upside down, right-side on top, leaning right or left, etc.) of each piece, is also possible and would eliminate the assistance to be provided by placing the numbers upright. FIG. 2E clearly illustrates this fully random positioning; notice that the corresponding puzzle map/key (FIG. 2F), needs only the upright numbers to be complete.

(4.) Variable 4: Having the shapes of the map pieces to conform to the pieces on the puzzle front, is yet another consideration. Seeing the like shapes on the map, with the piece one is placing on the puzzle is a major assistance. A simple grid comprised of numbered blocks is also a possibility for a puzzle map/key with the map assisting in placement without the assistance of congruent shapes. (See Maps 2D, 2F and 3C).

The Puzzle Map benefits are most completely accomplished by having map/key identifiers consecutively numbered, arranged in an upright position, and having the same shapes for each piece as the puzzle pieces being located. Recognizing the different levels of assistance that can be derived from puzzle map/keys is useful for the production of maps/keys. The variables give the manufacturer of the puzzles, control over the level of assistance to be provided and therefore, some advantage in catering to a select population of puzzlers, who have different expectations and desires in being assisted.

The Puzzle Map/key conforms to the manufacturing of puzzles in two stages in this example referring to standard picture puzzle production as follows:

Stage 1: Producing a back-of-the-puzzle grid of numbers: This grid is an apparatus depicting the entire surface of the back of a puzzle, which is composed of cells representing all the pieces in that puzzle, inscribed with numbers enabling each puzzle piece to be identified with a unique number. The grid is in document form on a single sheet of paper and is sealed on the backplane of the puzzle, produced in sync with the methods of puzzle production in which the picture on the front side of the puzzle is sealed onto the puzzle plane before cutting. The grid document is prepared for computer numbering by determining the grid pattern based on the size and location of each puzzle piece on the back of the puzzle. Each grid cell space represents one puzzle piece and must conform exactly to the size and positioning of every puzzle piece represented. The whole grid must be constructed to be the same size as the puzzle, with the numbers to be filled in by computer in the cell space of every piece. Centering the numbers in the cells is important to ensure the numbers are within the cell space and as legible as possible.

One way to produce this grid is to copy the die stencil pattern and use that pattern to compile the numbers grid document as is shown in FIG. 2A. The resulting back-of-the-puzzle grid document is sealed onto the back-of-the-puzzle plane before being prepared for cutting. The grid with the numbers only, as in FIG. 3A, is the appearance of the back-of-the-puzzle grid document that is to be sealed onto the backside of the puzzle board before it is cut and pressed into puzzle pieces, with the picture sealed on the front side of that same puzzle board. With both the front-side picture and the back-of-the-puzzle grid sealed on the top and bottom planes of the puzzle, respectively, all pieces of the puzzle will have been cut out with each puzzle piece having an identifying symbol on its bottom side as well as part of the picture on its topside.

Many, if not most, of the puzzles produced have puzzle pieces that are in a symmetrical and predictable pattern, and they are in rows and columns of the same size, although they differ in shapes. This symmetry is the basis for another way to create back-of-the-puzzle grids--by the process of calculation. First, determine the exact size for one cell of the grid, as is shown in FIG. 3B. FIG. 3B is an actual size grid which is a partial picture of the total back-of-the-puzzle grid for the 200-piece puzzle #3 represented in FIG. 3A. If printed as a whole with all 200 pieces, it would measure 12″×18″. Each cell or puzzle piece measures 1.2 inches in height and 0.90 inches in width. Devise a computer grid of cells of that determined size by placing the same number of cells in the grid, as are on the puzzle. Numbering the back of the puzzle is as simple as filling the cells with numbers in the center of each cell. Each cell corresponds to the puzzle piece it represents, in size and its location in the puzzle. Determining the measurements of one of the pieces enables the configuration of the total back-of-the-puzzle grid since the cells or puzzle pieces are basically the same size and in a symmetrical pattern. Progression of the process to the finished numbered back-of-the-puzzle grid is shown by FIGS. 1D, 1E, and 1F. FIGS. 1E, 1F, 2A, 2C, 2E and 3A show the back- of-the-puzzle grids for a puzzle with numbers located at the center of the cell space for each puzzle piece.

Placing the grid of numbers on the back of the puzzle is the next step, to be accomplished in the manufacturing process that produces puzzles. Starting with a plain puzzle board and a puzzle picture, one usual manufacturing process involves a sealer (which seals the picture onto the board material), a sharp die (which is the stencil and cutter for the pieces) and a die press (that produces the pressure for the die to cut the puzzle pieces in the shape of the die. The back-of-the-puzzle grid document, which contains the backside numbers of all the pieces, is sealed onto the puzzle on its bottom side in the same stage as the picture when it is applied to the top side of the puzzle. This additional action enables mass production of puzzles with numbers on their back sides. The result is the production of puzzles with each piece having a picture on the front and also an identifying number on the back of the puzzle. The connection of the back-of-the-puzzle numbers to the frontside depiction of numbers on the puzzle map/key is complete. Considering that the dies that determine the shape, size and placement of the puzzle pieces are used to produce thousands of different puzzles, the back-of-the-puzzle grid can be utilized for as many puzzles as can be produced by one die pattern.

Stage 2-Producing the Map/key: The puzzle map/key, a separate one-page document from the puzzle is a reproduction of the puzzle pieces or piece representations on its front or picture side with or without the front-of-the-puzzle picture as a background. This map/key can be accomplished by copying the shape of the die on the reverse side of the back-of-the-puzzle die pattern, and then producing the map/key by inserting on each piece the same numbers that are on the back of the puzzle as shown in FIG. 2B. However, these map/key numbers must be in reverse order of numbers on the back, because when looking at the numbers on the back of the puzzle, they are in reverse order of the puzzle/map piece placement, when one views the front of the puzzle or front of the map/key. (see FIG. 2B, the number arrangement of the Map Key as compared to the opposing numbers on the back-of-the-puzzle grid on FIG. 2A). One can picture a mirror image of the back-of-the-puzzle grid. If the numbers from left to right on the back of the puzzle are ascending, then the mirror image of the map/key numbers would have those same numbers in descending order. The same grids which are produced for the back of the puzzle are used for the map/key grid; but the numbers and shapes for the map/key must be in reverse order or mirror image order, from the back-of-the-puzzle grid. The progression from the back-of-the-puzzle shapes grid to the front-of-the-puzzle map/key is illustrated by FIGS. 1D, 1E, IF, 1G, 1H, and 1I.

The puzzle map/key is easier to produce than the back-of-the-puzzle grid because it does not have to conform to the exact size of the actual puzzle pieces, as the back-of-the-puzzle grid does. The map/key can be presented in block form as in FIG. 3C or can be presented in the puzzle shapes as in FIGS. 1C, 1I, 2B, and 3D. The map/key requires only legible numbers or symbols, and clear shape representations for the puzzle pieces and the finished map/key can be any size that is convenient to use on the part of the consumer. Having the map/key conform exactly to the size of the finished puzzle is not necessary and in many cases would make the map/key too large. The map/key can be subject to artistic color and designs on the border or can have the actual puzzle picture as a background and is open to creative touches that make the map/key an attractive addition.

The puzzle map/key apparatus is amenable to large-scale production and is almost as easily produced as puzzles with pictures. The Map/key production is amenable to any puzzle process which cuts out individual pieces from a single source sheet after having sealed the puzzle picture on one surface; thus resulting in minimal costs to incorporate. The process is efficient and the means to produce the Maps can be utilized for thousands of puzzles. Puzzle Maps can be produced therefore with maximum applicability and minimal cost.

Accessibility: The map/keys can be made available by including them in the puzzle box which contains the puzzle pieces. They can be offered as an extra bonus to puzzlers and pose a unique opportunity to sell more puzzles, with the idea that the maps can make puzzles more attractive, easier to finish, and more fun to enjoy with friends and family. The map/key can be made available through other mediums, including mail, phone, or computer; however, the inclusion in the same container as the puzzle is the most convenient mode of transmission and can respond to the marketing on the puzzle box immediately.

The puzzle map/key can be transmitted through the computer by including a code that uniquely connects the consumer to the puzzle map on a puzzle website. Advantages of this code transmission include more use by consumers of the websites that promote puzzle sales, security of ownership for buyers and sellers of puzzle map/keys, and more exposure of consumers to the benefits of marketing efforts and information on the array and availability of puzzles.

A further benefit of the map/key can be conceived in the assistance to be given in replacing lost puzzle pieces that can easily be identified by manufacturers who have access to the puzzle map/keys as well as the capacity to manufacture the puzzles themselves.

Having thus described the invention in rather full detail, it will be understood that such detail need not be strictly adhered to, but that additional changes and modifications may suggest themselves to one skilled in the art, all falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the subjoined claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A puzzle map key for solving a two-dimensional jigsaw puzzle having a front plane with a plurality of puzzle pieces, said puzzle map key comprising: a. a map/key comprising a one-page document displaying substantially the entire front plane and all pieces of a puzzle to be solved, each of said puzzle pieces being shown on the map/key and being identified by a number or symbol that is derived from and is the same as a corresponding number or symbol inscribed on the back of each of the puzzle pieces; b. a back-of-the-puzzle grid, comprising a plurality of spaces bearing numbers or symbols that identify the location for each piece of the puzzle to be solved, each of said numbers or symbols being imprinted on the backs of pieces of said jigsaw puzzle, being different from any other of said numbers or symbols and not repeated on the back-of-the puzzle grid, whereby each piece of the puzzle shown on the front plane is uniquely identifiable by the numbers or symbols on the backs of the jigsaw puzzle pieces and the spaces bearing numbers or symbols which collectively comprise the back-of-the-puzzle grid.
 2. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 1, wherein said map/key displays an identifying back-of-the-puzzle symbol for each puzzle piece shown on the front of each corresponding piece of the map/key, so that the map/key identifies the exact and correct placement of all the puzzle pieces by matching the identifying number on the back of each puzzle piece to the number displayed by the map/key; thus divulging the correct location of that puzzle piece within the puzzle being resolved.
 3. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 2, wherein the map/key identifies the correct location of any puzzle piece within said jigsaw puzzle so that a piece-by-piece solution is achieved without having to match each puzzle piece to the only correct location of that piece on the front plane of the jigsaw puzzle being completed.
 4. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 3, comprising a scheme of identifiers for the puzzle map/key that includes a grid of all the back-of-the-puzzle identifying symbols, which have been organized on the back-of-the-puzzle grid in a mirror image order that is also an opposing order from the identifiers within the grid comprising the puzzle map/key, said scheme of identifiers being a necessary arrangement for both the front-of-the-puzzle and back-of-the-puzzle grids in order to enable the identification of each puzzle piece on the map/key to correspond exactly to the location of the puzzle piece on the front plane of the puzzle being resolved.
 5. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 1, wherein said back-of-the-puzzle grid and said map/key can be readily produced on a mass scale by manufacturing methods that are conventional in the puzzle manufacturing art.
 6. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 1, said map/key being readily housed in a puzzle box and transmitted to a puzzle consumer by conventional transmission media, including computer, phone, and electronic or regular mail.
 7. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 1, said map/key being configured to serve as a reference and key to achieving a completed puzzle, thereby enabling a person or persons completing the puzzle to determine the level of assistance to be needed or desired from the use of the Map/key when assessing the effort and time required for jigsaw puzzle completion.
 8. A puzzle map/key as recited by claim 8, said map/key being configured to enhance the puzzle completion experience for persons accepting the challenge of completing a jigsaw puzzle accompanied by a map/key. 